147. FASTING And The First Ten Days Of Dhul Hijjah

By Asma bint Shameem 

The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are the best days of the entire year. 

And the acts of ibaadah done in these days are more rewarding than at any other time of the year. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam said: 

"There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allaah than these ten days." 

The people asked, 

"Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah?" 

He said, 

"Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing." 

(al-Bukhaari 969)

So the Sahaabah used to take  advantage of these beautiful days of Dhul Hijjah and exert themselves in all kinds of ibaadah including *FASTING*. 

So here are some points related to that. 

1. *Do NOT fast on the 10th. *

It is *haraam* to fast on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah which is the day of Eid al-Adhaa. 

Fasting is *only* recommended for the *first NINE days of Dhul Hijjah*.

 Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri radhi Allaahu anhu said: 

“The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam forbade fasting on the day of al-Fitr and al-Nahr.” 

(al-Bukhaari, 1992; Muslim, 827)

2. *These are Nafl fasts.* 

The fasts of the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah are *”voluntary”* or Nafl fasts. 

If you fast these days, you’re rewarded for it. 

If you don’t fast them, you’re not sinful. 

In other words, you don’t “HAVE” to fast them. 

But it would be great if you do. 

3. *The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam LOVED to fast the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah.* 

Fasting these days is an established Sunnah.

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam himself used to fast these days and so did the Noble Sahaabah.

One of the wives of the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said: 

“The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam used to fast on the first nine days of Dhu’l-Hijjah and the day of ‘Ashoora’, and three days each month, the first Monday of the month and two Thursdays.”

(al-Nasaa’i, Abu Dawood- saheeh by al-Albaani)

4. *Do I “have” to fast ALL nine days?*

No. 

Since these are Nafl fasts, the choice is yours.

If you can fast from 1-9 of Dhul Hijjah, that’s good.

But if you can’t do that, then fast as many days as you can.

And it will be a source of reward for you.

5. *Do fast the 9th of Dhul Hijjah*  

The 9th of Dhul Hijjah is the Day of Arafah. 

And it’s *highly recommended* to fast this day (for the non-Haaji) as fasting on it expiates sins of TWO YEARS of your life!

Abu Qataadah radhi Allaahu anhu said that the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam was asked about fasting on the day of ‘Arafah and he said: 

“It expiates for the past and coming years.” 

[Muslim (1162)]

6. *If you’re performing Hajj, do not fast the ninth of Dhul Hijjah.*

Fasting the ninth is recommended for those who’re NOT going for Hajj. 

The scholars said that it’s NOT recommended for the *Haaji* to fast on the NINTH of Dhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah). 

Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen said: 

“As for the pilgrim, it is NOT SUNNAH for him to fast on the day of ‘Arafah, because the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam did not fast on the day of ‘Arafah during the Farewell Pilgrimage. 

In Saheeh al-Bukhaari it is narrated from Maymoonah radhi Allaahu anhaa that the people were not sure whether the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam was fasting on the day of ‘Arafah, so she sent him some milk when he was standing in ‘Arafah, and he drank it whilst the people were looking on.”

[Majmoo’ Fataawa Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (part 20, question no. 404)]

*You can make up your MISSED fardh fasts during these days.*

If you have Fardh fasts to make up from this past Ramadhaan, then make them up in the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah.

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“No days in which the good deeds are better than these days – referring to the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah.” (Al-Bukhaari 969)

So if these are the best ten days of the year, and the Sahaabah were keen to do as many good deeds in these days as possible, then what better chance than this to make up the Ramadhaan fasts that you owe?

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said:

“If a person fasts the day of ‘Arafah or the day of ‘Ashoora’, and he still owes fasts from Ramadhaan, his fast will be valid.

But if he intended to fast that day to make up for a missed Ramadhaan fast, he will have TWO REWARDS: the reward of the day of ‘Arafah or the day of ‘Ashoora’, and the reward for making up the missed fast.” (Fataawa as-Siyaam (438)

So go ahead and fast the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah to make up your Ramadhaan fardh fasts. 

Pay back the debt you owe Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala, in these virtuous days. 

These are the perfect days for doing that. 

And Allaah knows best.

146. Combining The Fasts Of Ramadhaan And NOT Allowed To Do That With The Fasts Of Shawwaal In Dhul-Hijjah

By Asma bint Shameem 

*QUESTION*

*Why is it allowed to fast Dhul-Hijjah with the intention of combining the fasts of Ramadhaan and NOT allowed to do that with the fasts of Shawwal?*

 *ANSWER*

It’s *allowed* for us to fast the days of Dhul-Hijjah and combine the intention to make up the days of Ramadhaan. 

However, we cannot fast shawwaal fasts with the combined intention of making up Ramadhaan fasts because the shawwaal fasts are SPECIFIC and CONNECTED to the Ramadhaan fasts. 

And so you cannot combine such ibaadaat. 

An example of that is the Fajr Salaah. 

You cannot combine the two rakah Sunnah with the two rakah fardh. Correct?

Why is that?

Because the Sunnah of Fajr is SPECIFIC and CONNECTED to the fardh prayer. 

However you CAN combine a NON SPECIFIC Ibaadah with a specific one. 

So you can for example, combine the intention of praying the Sunnah of Fajr with Tahiyyatul Masjid. 

That’s because Tahiyyatul masjid is a NON SPECIFIC prayer that is supposed to be read when you enter a masjid and is not connected to any act of ibaadah. 

When you enter a masjid, you should pray two rak’ah. 

And that act of ibaadah is fulfilled by praying two rakah in ANY form. 

Therefore the duty of praying Tahiyyatul masjid is FULFILLED by praying ANY prayer. 

Similarly we can combine the intention of fasts that we owed from Ramadhaan with the fasts of Dhul-Hijjah because the fasts of Dhul-Hijjah are NON SPECIFIC. 

It’s GENERALLY recommended to fast in Dhul-Hijjah, whereas the fasts of shawwaal are SPECIFIC and CONNECTED to Ramadhaan and therefore they can NOT be combined with any other fasts. 

The hadeeth about fasting shawwaal specifically states “Whoever fasts Ramadhaan and THEN fasts the six days of shawwaal....”

So they’re specific and connected to Ramadhaan. 

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said:

“If a person fasts the day of ‘Arafah or the day of ‘Ashoora’, and he still owes fasts from Ramadhaan, his fast will be valid.

But if he intended to fast that day to make up for a missed Ramadhaan fast, he will have TWO REWARDS: the reward of the day of ‘Arafah or the day of ‘Ashoora’, and the reward for making up the missed fast. 

This applies to voluntary fasts in *general*, that have nothing to do with Ramadhaan. 

But with regard to the six days of Shawwaal, they are connected to Ramadhaan, and can only be done after making it up. 

If a person fasts these days before making up missed Ramadhaan fasts, he will not attain the reward for them, because the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam 

said: 

“Whoever fasts Ramadhaan then follows it with six days of Shawwaal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime.” 

And it is well known that if a person owes missed fasts, then he cannot be regarded as having fasted Ramadhaan until he completes the days that he owes.”

(Fataawa as-Siyaam (438)

So go ahead and fast the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah to make up your Ramadhaan fardh fasts. 

Pay back the debt you owe Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala, in these virtuous days. 

These are the perfect days for doing that. 

And Allaah knows best.

145. Offering Sacrifice This Eid al-Adhaa?

By Asma bint Shameem 

1. If you're offering a sacrifice (udhiyah) this Eid, you should not cut your nails or hair starting from the first of Dhul Hijjah until the time you do the sacrifice. 

Proof

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“When you see the new moon of Dhu’l-Hijjah, and one of you wants to offer a sacrifice, let him refrain from (removing anything) from his hair or nails.” (Muslim)

Why is that?

The  ulama explain the reason why cutting the nails and hair is not allowed. 

*It is to show UNITY, SUPPORT and SOLIDARITY  between the hujjaaj and those that are not going for hajj.* 

2. This prohibition applies to ALL his hair whether it’s the hair on the head or beard, moustache, or other places. 

Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen said: 

“When the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah begin, if you intend to offer an udhiyah on your own behalf or on behalf of someone else from your wealth, then you should not remove anything of your hair, either from the armpit or the pubic area or the moustache or the head, until you have offered your sacrifice. 

Similarly, you should not remove anything from your nails, either on the feet or on the hands, until you have offered your sacrifice. …

That is a sign of respect for the udhiyah, and so that those who are not in ihram will attain some of what those who are in ihram for Hajj will attain, because when a person goes for Hajj or ‘umrah, he does not shave his head until the sacrificial animal reaches the place where it is to be slaughtered, and Allah, may he be glorified and exalted, wants to give His slaves who are not performing Hajj or ‘Umrah a share of the rituals.”

[Sharh Riyaadh as-Saaliheen (6/450)]

3. This rule ONLY APPLIES to the one doing the sacrifice. 

Your family and the others that you're doing the sacrifice on behalf of, do NOT have to do that. 

They CAN cut their nails and hair if they need to. 

Shaykh Ibn Baaz said: 

“With regard to the family of the one who is going to offer the sacrifice, they are not subject to any obligations, and it is not forbidden for them to remove anything from their hair or nails, according to the sounder of the two scholarly views. Rather the ruling applies only to the one who is going to offer the sacrifice, the one who has bought the sacrificial animal from his own wealth.”

(Fataawa Islamiyyah, 2/316)

And Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen said: 

“The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam used to offer the sacrifice on behalf of his household and it is not narrated that he said to them, “Do not remove anything from your hair or nails or skin.” 

If that had been forbidden for them, the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam would have told them not to do it. 

This view is the more correct opinion.”

4. Can I brush my hair or wash it etc during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah if I’m offering the sacrifice?

Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen said: 

“When the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah begin, if a person intends to offer an udhiyah, then he is not allowed to remove anything of his hair, nails or skin. 

But if a woman needs to comb her hair during these days, and she intends to offer an udhiyah, there is nothing wrong with her combing her hair, but she should do so gently. 

Then if any hair falls out without intending it to, there is no sin on her, because she did not comb her hair for the purpose of making it fall out; rather it was for the purpose of making it neat, and the hair fell out without her intending it to.”[Noor ‘ala ad-Darb (9/5 8)]

And Shaikh Ibn Baaz said:

“It is permissible for her to undo her hair (if it is braided etc) and wash it, but she should not comb it. If some of her hair falls out when it is being undone or washed, that does not matter.”

[Fataawa al-Shaykh Ibn Baaz (18/47)]

5. What happens if I cut my hair by mistake? Or forgot? Or my nail broke?

Shaikh Ibn Baaz said:

“If the person who wants to offer the sacrifice does remove anything from his hair, nails or skin then he has to repent to Allaah and not do it again, but he does not have to offer any expiation, and that does not prevent him from offering the sacrifice as some of the common people think. 

If he does any of those things out of forgetfulness or ignorance, or some hair falls unintentionally, then there is no sin on him. 

If he needs to remove it then he may do so, and there is no blame on him, such as if a nail breaks and it annoys him, so he cuts it, or if a hair gets in his eye and he removes it, or he needs to cut his hair in order to treat a wound and the like.” 

(Fataawa Islamiyyah, 2/316)

And Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen said: 

“If a person needs to remove anything from his hair, nails or skin, then there is no blame on him for removing it, such as if he has a wound and he needs to trim the hair from around it, or if he breaks an nail and it bothers him, so he trims whatever is bothering him, or if he has a piece of dead skin and it is bothering him, so he cuts it off. There is no blame on him in any of these cases.” [Majmoo‘ Fataawa Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (25/161)]

And Allaah knows best

144. Offering Udhiyah/Qurbaani For The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam On Eid

By Asma bint Shameem

*QUESTION*

*Is it allowed for me to offer a sacrifice on behalf of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam on Eid al-Adhaa?*

 *ANSWER*

It is NOT proven from the Qur’aan and/or authentic Sunnah to offer a sacrifice ESPECIALLY for the PROPHET sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

That is something that’s NOT PROVEN from the actions or instructions of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam NEVER taught us to do that although he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam taught us EVERYTHING we need as far as doing good deeds is concerned. 

Also the Sahaabah NEVER sacrificed a qurbaani on behalf of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

If it was good to do that, they would have definitely done that. 

But they didn't. 

So if they didn’t do it then we shouldn’t be doing it either. 

In fact it’s not allowed to do ANY act of ibaadah on behalf of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

Someone asked al-Haafiz ibn Hajar about reading some Qur’aan on behalf of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam and ‘donating’ it to the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

He said:

“This is something that has been invented by later generations. I do not know of any precedent for that.”[Mawaahib al-Jaleel, 2/544, 454]

And if someone does any action that’s not proven from the authentic practice or teachings of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam then *it will not be accepted*. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

"Whoever performs an ACTION not in accordance with our affair, then it is REJECTED." 

( Muslim)

Besides, the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam does NOT NEED our good deeds. 

Rather, it is ‘WE’ who are in need of them. 

Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala has already forgiven all his past and future sins. 

Another thing to think about...

Whatever good we do, the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam automatically gets the reward of it too. 

That's because he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said:

“Whoever sets a good example in Islaam which is followed after he is gone, will have a reward like those who acted upon it, without it detracting from their reward in the slightest.” (Muslim)

So he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam gets the reward of EVERY SINGLE GOOD DEED we do ANYWAY, because he’s the one who taught us all that we know about our Deen. 

The scholars said:

“It is not prescribed to offer or give the udhiyah (qurbaani) on behalf of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam, because that was not narrated from any of the Sahaabah, despite their perfect love for him and their perfect eagerness to do good, and the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam did not instruct his ummah to do that. 

If it were something good, he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam would have directed them to do it.” 

(Islamqa Fatwa # 128016)

Conclusion 

Earning rewards can NOT be achieved by inventing ‘new’ ways of worship. 

Rather rewards are ONLY earned by *following* the ways and teachings of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

And Allaah knows best

143. All About Udhiyah (Qurbaani)

By Asma bint Shameem

1. What is Udhiyah or Qurbaani?

The word udhiyah means “an animal of the ‘an’aam class (i.e., camel, cow, sheep or goat) that is slaughtered during the days of Eid al-Adhaa because of the Eid and as *an act of worship*, intending to draw closer to Allaah thereby.”

It is an act of ibaadah to Allaah and you are rewarded for it. 

Allaah says:

“Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and *sacrifice (to Him only)*”

[al-Kawthar 108:2]

And He said:

“And for every nation We have appointed religious ceremonies, that they may mention the Name of Allaah over the beast of cattle that He has given them for food. And your Ilaah (God) is One Ilaah (God Allaah), so you must submit to Him Alone (in Islaam).”

[al-Hajj 22:34]

2. Offering a sacrifice on Eid al-Adhaa is an act of worship that you should do IF you can afford it. 

If you can't, you don't “have” to do it. 

The scholars of the Standing Committee said:

"Offering the udhiyah (qurbaani) on the Muslim’s behalf and on behalf of the (living) members of his family is a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah mu’akkadah) for the one who is able to do it.”

[Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 11/419]

3.ONE sacrifice (a goat or sheep) is ENOUGH  on behalf of the head of the household , his wife, kids and family living under his roof. 

You do NOT “have” to offer sacrifice for EACH member of the family. 

Shaykh Muhammad ibn ‘Uthaymeen said: 

“Udhiyah is Sunnah mu’akkadah for the one who is able to do it, so a person should offer the sacrifice on behalf of himself and the members of his household.”

(Fataawa Ibn ‘Uthaymeen, 2/661)

But if someone wants to offer more than one sacrifice per family, that’s allowed. 

And counts as extra rewards. 

4. You can offer this ONE udhiyah on behalf of ALL members of your family, both living and even the *dead*. 

The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam used to offer the udhiyah on behalf of himself and on behalf of the members of his family, including those who had previously died, for example Khadeejah radhi Allaahu anhaa. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam brought a ram and 

said: 

“In the name of Allaah; O Allaah, accept (this sacrifice) on behalf of Muhammad and the family of Muhammad and the ummah of Muhammad.” Then he sacrificed it.”

(Saheeh Muslim 3637)

5. There are up to SEVEN shares in one cow or camel. 

So seven people may get together and share the sacrifice of a camel or cow. 

Jaabir ibn ‘Abd-Allaah radhi Allaahu anhu said: 

“On the day of al-Hudaybiyah we offered the sacrifice with the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam, a camel on behalf of seven and a cow on behalf of seven.” [Muslim (1318)]

The scholars of the Standing Committee said:

“A camel or a cow is sufficient on behalf of seven people, whether they are all from one family or are from different families, and whether they are related to one another or not, because the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam gave permission to the Sahaabah to share a camel or a cow, one animal for every seven people, and he did not say anything more specific than that.”

[Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 11/401]

And Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen said: 

“One sheep is sufficient for one person, and one-seventh of a camel or cow is sufficient for what one sheep is sufficient for.”

(Ahkaam al-Udhiyah)

6. It’s allowed for *less* than seven to share in a cow or camel. 

Imaam ash-Shaafa‘i said:

“If they are fewer than seven, it is acceptable on their part, and any surplus is regarded as a supererogatory act on their part, just as a camel is acceptable on behalf of one from whom a sheep is required, and he is regarded as doing a supererogatory act with regard to the difference between the sheep and the camel.” 

[al-Umm (2/244)]

7. The sacrifice has to be from among the "an'aam" animals meaning either a sheep, goat, cow or camel. 

So for example, you cannot sacrifice a chicken. 

Allaah says:

“And for every nation We have appointed religious ceremonies, that they may mention the Name of Allaah over the *“beast of cattle”* (Baheemat al-an’aam) that He has given them for food”

[al-Hajj 22:34]

“Beast of cattle” includes camels, cattle and sheep. 

This is what is well known among the Arabs, and this was the view of al-Hasan, Qataadah and others. 

8. Choose the BEST animal as offering sacrifice is an act of worship to Allaah Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala. 

So offer a good animal ....healthy, free of fault. 

Abu Raafi, the freed slave of the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said: 

“When the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam offered a sacrifice, he would buy two fat rams.”

According to one version, *“castrated rams.”*

(Ahmad; saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Ibn Maajah, 3122)

Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen said explaining the above hadeeth:

“Fat means an animal that has a lot of fat and meat. 

‘Castrated’ means one that has had its testicles removed – this is usually *better* than an uncastrated animal with regard to the taste of the meat, but the uncastrated animal is more complete in a physical sense.”

(Risaalat Ahkaam al-Audhiyah Wa’l-Dhakaah)

9. The time for this udhiyah is from after the Khutbah on the day of Eid until sunset on the thirteenth of dhul Hijjah. But the sooner the sacrifice, the better. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“Whoever offers a sacrifice *after the prayer* has completed his rituals (of Eid) and has followed the way of the Muslims.” [al-Bukhaari 5545]

10. It's better if you slaughter the animal yourself. 

Anas ibn Maalik radhi Allaahu anhu said: 

“The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam sacrificed two white rams speckled with black. 

*He slaughtered them with his own hand*, said ‘Allaahu akbar’ and put his foot on their necks.” 

[al-Bukhaari (5558) and Saheeh Muslim (1966)]

But you can also delegate someone else to do it on your behalf if you don't know how or for some other reason. 

11. How to divide the Udhiyah

It's good to eat ‘some’ from the udhiyah (qurbaani) and give ‘some’ as charity. 

Allaah said:

“Then eat thereof and feed therewith the poor having a hard time” 

[al-Hajj 22:28] 

And the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said about the udhiyah: 

“Eat some, store some and give some in charity.” 

(Muslim)

It’s recommended to divide it in three parts. 

And keep a third for yourself, give a third to the poor, and a third to your family. 

But that’s not a hard and fast rule. 

The scholars said:

“The division of the udhiyah into three portions was narrated from some of the Sahaabah radhi Allaahu anhum, but the matter is broad in scope. 

What matters is that “some” of it should reach the poor and needy.”

(Islamqa Fatwa # 160055)

12. It's good to do the sacrifice in the city where you live. 

But if there is *more benefit* of doing the sacrifice in a place other than your residence, such as poor relatives, or other Muslims who are in greater need of the charity, then you can offer the udhiyah in a place other than where you live. 

Shaikh Ibn Jibreen said:

“It is preferable to slaughter it in the country where you are, so that you may be present at the slaughter and say the name of Allaah over it, and eat from it, give some as gifts and give some in charity, by thirds. 

But if it is a rich country and there are no poor people there, and if you give to some of them they will store it for several days and they have abundant meat throughout the year, then it is permissible to send it to those who need it in poor countries where meat is scarce and they only have it rarely. 

But it is essential to make sure that the sacrifice is done during the days of sacrifice, and that the animal is of the right age and free of defects, and that the person appointed to do that is trustworthy.”

13.If you're the one offering the udhiyah, you should not cut your nails or hair starting from the first of dhul hijjah until the time you do the sacrifice. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“When you see the new moon of Dhu’l-Hijjah, and one of you wants to offer a sacrifice, let him refrain from (removing anything) from his hair or nails.” (Muslim, 1977)

According to another version: “Let him not remove anything of his hair or skin.” 

14.This ruling is ONLY for the one doing the sacrifice. 

Your family and the others that you're doing the sacrifice on behalf of, do NOT have to do that. 

They can cut their nails and hair if they need to. 

The reason why cutting the nails and hair is not allowed is to show unity, support and solidarity between the hujjaaj and those that are not going for hajj. 

Shaikh Ibn Baaz said:

“This ruling applies only to the one who is going to slaughter the sacrifice. 

It does NOT apply to the one on whose behalf a sacrifice is offered, because the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said, “If any one of you wants to offer a sacrifice.” 

He did not say, “… is going to have a sacrifice offered on his behalf.” 

And the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam used to offer the sacrifice on behalf of the members of his household, and it is not narrated that he told them to refrain from that (cutting their hair and nails etc). 

Based on this, it is permissible for the family of the person who is going to offer the sacrifice to remove things from their hair, nails and skin during the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah.”

(Fataawa Islamiyyah, 2/316)

15. A Haaji does not have to offer an udhiyah because he is offering a hadiy. 

The proof is the fact that the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam did not offer an udhiyah when he went for hajj. Rather he offered a hadiy. 

BUT if the person is doing hajj by himself, he can leave some money behind with his family so that they can offer the udhiyah. 

 Shaikh ibn Uthaymeen said:

"The pilgrim does not offer an udhiyah, rather he offers a hadiy. Hence the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam did not offer an udhiyah during the Farewell Hajj, rather he offered a hadiy. 

But if we assume that he is doing Hajj by himself and his family are in his homeland, then in that case he should leave his family enough money to buy an animal and offer it as an udhiyah, so he will be offering a hadiy and they will be offering an udhiyah, because the udhiyah is only prescribed in places other than Makkah, but in Makkah it should be a hadiy."(al-Liqa’ al-Shahri)

16. It's NOT CORRECT to offer udhiyah on behalf of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam never taught us to do that although he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam taught us EVERYTHING we need as far as doing good deeds is concerned. 

Also the Sahaabah never sacrificed an udhiyah on behalf of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

If it was good to do that, they would have definitely done that. But they didn't. 

Besides whatever good we do, the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam automatically gets the reward of it too. 

 That's because he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said:

“Whoever sets a good example in Islam which is followed after he is gone, will have a reward like those who acted upon it, without it detracting from their reward in the slightest.” (Muslim)

And Allaah knows best.

142. The Best Days Of The Entire Year

By Asma bint Shameem

Alhamdulillaah......those blessed days are almost here one more time!  

The glorious days when rewards are multiplied many times, and sins are forgiven much more... the days in which Allaah gives us yet another chance to worship Him, to ask for forgiveness and correct our faults and make up for our shortcomings.... 

the blessed days that the Sahaabah waited for and prayed for.... 

the beautiful days in which they strived long and hard in worship, until they could do no more.... 

What are these magnificent days?

These blessed days are the FIRST TEN DAYS of Dhul-Hijjah. 

Just like the last ten nights of Ramadhaan are the best ten nights out of the whole year, the Ulama tell us that out of all the days of the year, these first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are the best and the most beloved to Allaah as they combine acts of worship in a way unlike any other times.  

The Prophet (sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) said: 

"There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allaah than these ten days." 

The people asked, 
"Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah?" 

He said, 
"Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing." 

(al-Bukhaari)

Subhaan Allaah wal-Hamdulillaah! 

What a blessing!

The question is.....what do “I” do on these magnificent days and how can I make the most of this perfect, golden opportunity to earn rewards and Jannah?

1. Go for HAJJ

Obviously, Hajj is one of the best deeds that one can do in their entire LIFETIME. 

Imagine the rewards of such an amazing good deed during the ten BEST, most BLESSED days!

However for those of us who were not invited to His House this year, there are still many, many good deeds that one can do and earn the Pleasure of Allaah.

Some of these are:

2. Fast all NINE days and especially fast the Day of 'Arafah

If you can fast the first “NINE” days of Dhul Hijjah — ALL nine of them — that would be an amazing act of ibaadah that brings tremendous rewards. 

And if you can’t fast all nine days, at least do as many as you can. 

In fact this is a perfect chance to make up any *Ramadhaan fasts* you have left to make up. 

And be sure to fast the ninth. 

The Prophet (sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) used to fast on the ninth day of Dhu'l-Hijjah and he said:

"Fasting the Day of 'Arafah (ninth Dhul-hijjah) is an expiation for (all the sins of) the previous year and an expiation for (all the sins of) the coming year." (Muslim)

IMPORTANT NOTE

Fasting the ninth is recommended for those who’re NOT going for Hajj. 

Remember, the Haaji SHOULD NOT FAST on the NINTH (Day of Arafah).

Also the Prophet (sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) said: 

"Anyone who fasts for one day for Allaah's pleasure, Allaah will keep his face away from the (Hell) fire for (a distance covered by a journey of) seventy years." 

(al-Bukhari, Muslim)

Just imagine.....if you fast these nine days (fasting on Eid is haraam), how far your distance will be from Hellfire In shaa’ Allaah!

3. Do a LOT of Dhikr and Takbeer

The Prophet (sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) said: 

"There are no days on which good deeds are greater or more beloved to Allaah than on these ten days, so recite much Tahleel (saying Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah), Takbeer (saying Allaahu akbar) and Tahmeed (saying al-hamdu Lillaah)." (Ahmad -Saheeh)

Ibn 'Umar and Abu Hurayrah radhi Allaahu anhumaa used to go out in the marketplace during the first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah, reciting Takbeer, and the people would recite Takbeer when they heard them. 

(al-Bukhaari)

Takbeer at this time is a Sunnah that has mostly been forgotten, especially during the first few days. 

So say it in the masjid, in your home, on the street and every place where it is permitted to remember Allaah. 

REVIVE the Sunnah that have been virtually forgotten and earn great rewards for doing so.

The Prophet (sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) said: 

"Whoever revives an aspect of my Sunnah that is forgotten after my death, he will have a reward equivalent to that of the people who follow him, without it detracting in the least from their reward." (Tirmidhi- hasan)

Obviously, men should recite these phrases out loud, and women should recite them quietly.

4.Stand in Night Prayers:

Remember the virtues of spending the night in prayer, and its sweetness in Ramadhaan?!

Why not revive this beautiful act of worship during these nights as well? 

Remember, how in the last third of every night, Allah Almighty calls out to us, His servants

Allaah says:

"Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to his invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me, so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?" 

(al-Bukhaari, Muslim)

Why should we miss this golden opportunity?

So, seize the chance NOW and invite yourself to His Divine Generosity and Mercy, ask Him to forgive you and guide you and set things aright. He will surely listen.

5. Make Sincere Repentance.

One of the best and most important things to do during these ten days is to repent sincerely to Allaah and to give up all kinds of disobedience and sin right away because we don't know when we will die. 

Also keep in mind that one evil deed leads to another.

But what does 'repentance' exactly mean? 

It means that you come back to Allaah and give up all the deeds, open and secret, that He dislikes.... that you REGRET whatever you did in the past, giving it up immediately and be determined never ever, to return to it, and resolve to adhere firmly to the Truth by doing whatever Allaah loves.

Allaah says:

"But as for him who repented, believed and did righteous deeds, then he will be among those who are successful." [al-Qasas 28:67]

6. Come back to the Qur'aan

It is time now to dust off your copy of the Qur'aan and return to its refuge. 

Surely, you remember the sweetness of its recitation in Ramadhaan?

Well, let’s bring the Qur’aan back into our lives. 

Make it a daily habit, using these 10 days the beginning of a strong and beautiful relationship with it.

Read it with the meanings, understand it, and then implement it and change your lives for the better, as much as you can.

Remember that reading one letter of the Qur'aan earns you 10 rewards. 

And just reading Surah al-Fatihah,which doesn't take more than two minutes will give you more than one thousand rewards!

This is on ordinary days....so what about these magnificent days! 

Certainly the reward will be far greater, Insha Allaah. 

7.  Generally increase in doing ALL good deeds

We should strive in doing good deeds any way because good deeds are beloved to Allaah and will bring us closer to Him. 

Imagine the rewards of good deeds in the BEST ten days of the year!

So pray extra Nawaafil, read Qur'aan, do LOTS of dhikr, send Salaams on the Prophet (sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam), make dua, give charity, honor your parents, uphold ties of kinship, enjoin what is good and forbid what is evil, help someone out, whatever good you can think of, DO it. 

Allaah says:

"So whosoever does good equal to the weight of an atom, shall see it; And whosoever does evil equal to the weight of an atom, shall see it."[al-Zalzalah 99:7-8]

8. Get the reward of Hajj and Umrah wherever you are

The Prophet (sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) said: 

"Whoever prays Fajr Prayer in congregation, and then sits and remembers Allah until the sun rises, then (after a while) prays two rak'ahs, he will gain a reward equal to that of making perfect Hajj and Umrah." [He repeated the word "perfect" thrice.] (At-Tirmidhi 586; hasan by al-Albaani)

Isn't that easy, Alhamdulillah?

9. Offer Udhiyah (qurbaani) and distribute the meat

It’s highly recommended for those who can afford it to offer a sacrifice on Eid al-Adhaa. 

Ibn Umar radhi Allaahu anhu said: 

“The Prophet (sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) lived in Madeenah for 10 years and every year he slaughtered an animal (at this time)." 

(Ahmad-Saheeh by al-Albaani)

Remember that one sacrifice is ENOUGH for one whole family. However if someone wants to do more, they may do that. 

And also remember that the Haaji does not offer Udhiyah; rather he offers a Hadiy (sacrificial animal that he slaughters in Makkah)

10. Attend Eid prayers

Eid prayer is a beautiful form of worship. 

So DO try and attend the Eid prayer. 

But we shouldn't be doing things that are unIslaamic (especially) during these times, such as listening to music, women going out for prayer without proper Hijaab, mixing of men and women, etc.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Eid prayer is ONLY for those who are NOT going for Hajj. 

There’s NO EID PRAYER for the Haaji. 

11. Thank Allaah

One of the biggest forms of worshipping Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta'ala is to thank Him, deeply, sincerely and continuously. 

After all, it is He who gave you every single thing that is in you, on you or around you. In fact, you wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for the Mercy of your Creator.

So thank Him for ALL that He gave you, the Islaam that He gave you, the health that He gave you, the very life He gave you. 

And thank Him for the chance that He gives you in these ten days, to ask for forgiveness and guidance.

Alhamdulillah, there is SO much to be gained in these coming days. 

So make the most of this perfect opportunity offered by these invaluable and irreplaceable ten days. Hasten to do good deeds and appreciate this blessing and make the most of it, striving hard in worship .

"And worship your Lord until there comes unto you the certainty (death)." [al-Hijr 15:99]

And Allaah knows best.

141. Offering Sacrifice On Behalf Of our Deceased Loved Ones

By Asma bint Shameem 

QUESTION

Can I offer a qurbaani (Udhiyah) on Eid al-Adhaa for my deceased loved ones?

ANSWER

It is proven from the Sunnah of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam that he used to offer a ‘combined’ udhiyah on behalf of himself and on behalf of the members of his family, including those who had previously died, for example Khadeejah radhi Allaahu anhaa. 

However, there’s *no evidence* that the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam ever offered a *separate* sacrifice for anyone who passed away, although his own beloved family members passed away in his lifetime. 

And he did not instruct us to do so. 

Thus the Sahaabah also did not offer a separate sacrifice for their deceased loved ones. 

Rather, they would offer one Udhiyah and include their family in it, both living and dead. 

Therefore, *although* offering Udhiyah “individually” on behalf of the deceased would be *’allowed’ as part of “general Sadaqah” on their behalf*, it’s *not recommended* to do so because it’s *not from the Sunnah*. 

Rather, it is *recommended* to INCLUDE them in the sacrifice that you are offering for yourself. 

Shaykh ‘Abd al-Muhsin al-‘Abbaad said: 

“When a person offers an udhiyah (sacrifice), he does so on behalf of himself and the members of his household, and he may do so on behalf of the living and the dead among the members of his family. 

If a man leaves instructions (in his will) that an udhiyah be offered on his behalf, then an udhiyah should be offered on his behalf.

As for offering an udhiyah on behalf of a deceased person ONLY, we do not know of any proven evidence to support that practice. 

But if a person offers an udhiyah on behalf of himself and the members of his household or his relatives, both living and dead, there is nothing wrong with that, and there is evidence in the Sunnah to support that. 

So the deceased may be INCLUDED alongside the living, but as for offering an udhiyah on their behalf only, without them having left instructions to that effect, I do not know of any evidence for that.” 

(Sharh Sunan Abi Dawood)

Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen said: 

“The basic principle concerning the udhiyah is that it is prescribed for the *living*, as the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam and his companions used to offer the sacrifice on behalf of themselves and their families. 

With regard to what some of the common folk think, that the sacrifice may be offered on behalf of the dead, there is NO BASIS for that. 

Udhiyah on behalf of the dead may be of three types: 

1. When it is offered on their behalf as well as on behalf of the living, such as when a man offers a sacrifice on behalf of himself and the members of his  family, and intends thereby both those who are alive and those who are dead. 

This is permissible, and the basis of that is the fact that the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam offered the sacrifice on behalf of himself and the members of his family, some of whom had previously died. 

2. Offering the sacrifice on behalf of the dead in fulfillment of their last wishes (wasaaya). 

This is obligatory except in the case of one who is unable to do it. The basis for this is the verse in which Allaah says:

“Then whoever changes the bequest after hearing it, the sin shall be on those who make the change. Truly, Allaah is All-Hearer, All-Knower” [al-Baqarah 2:181]

3. Offering the sacrifice on behalf of the dead *voluntarily* and *independently* of the living – such as offering a *separate sacrifice* on behalf of one's father or mother. 

This is permissible. 

The Hanbali fuqaha’ have stated that the reward for that will reach the deceased and benefit him, by analogy with giving charity on behalf of the dead. 

*BUT we do NOT think that SINGLING OUT the dead for offering a sacrifice on their behalf is part of the Sunnah, because the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam did NOT offer a sacrifice specifically on behalf of any of his deceased loved ones.*

*He did NOT offer a sacrifice on behalf of his paternal uncle Hamzah even though he was one of his dearest relatives, or on behalf of his children who died during his lifetime, who were three married daughters and three sons who died in infancy, or on behalf of his wife Khadeejah who was one of his most beloved wives.*

*And it is NOT narrated that any of his companions offered a sacrifice on behalf of any of their deceased loved ones.”*

(Risaalat Ahkaam Al-Udhiyah Wa’l-Dhakaah)

So the best thing to do is to AVOID doing a separate and independent qurbaani (Udhiyah) on behalf of the deceased. 

Rather, we can include them in the sacrifice that WE offer for ourselves. And In Shaa’ Allaah they’ll also get the reward.

And Allaah knows best

140. The Takbeeraat For Eid Ul-Adhaa

By Asma bint Shameem 

Alhamdulillaah the BEST days of the ENTIRE year are beginning from tomorrow. 

ANY good deed you’ll do in these next few days will be counted as the BEST deeds of the ENTIRE year. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam said: 

"There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allaah than these ten days." 

The people asked: 

"Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah?" 

He said:

"Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing." 

(al-Bukhaari)

Subhaan Allaah!

What a beautiful opportunity to earn good deeds and multiply their rewards. 

PART of the good deeds that we can do in these glorious and virtuous days is to MAGNIFY Allaah during the day and night and say the ”Takbeeraat”.

Saying the takbeeraat during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah and the next four days of Eid al-Adhaa, is one of the greatest ways to *worship Allaah* and *thank* Him. 

It is also one of the *greatest Sunnahs* for these magnificent days. 

And it’s *Allaah’s Order.* 

Allaah says:

“and MENTION the Name of Allaah on APPOINTED days”

[al-Hajj 22:28]

And Allaah says:

“And REMEMBER Allaah during the APPOINTED Days” [al-Baqarah 2:203]

These “APPOINTED” days are the days of Dhul Hijjah from the 1st till the 13th. 

How can we thank you, Yaa Allaah, for the blessings You bestowed upon us of these beautiful days of worship and good deeds...!

of Islaam...!

And of Imaan...!

How can we show you that it is You Alone that we worship? And that we are *grateful* to You for all that you bestowed upon us EXCEPT by Glorifying You, Yaa Rabb, and Exalting Your Mention?

All Praise is for You, Yaa Kareem, Yaa Rabb al-Aalameen, for giving us this chance to worship You and ask for Your forgiveness and have our sins forgiven!

“Ibn ‘Umar and Abu Hurayrah radhi Allaahu anhumaa used to go out to the market-place on first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah, reciting Takbeer, and the people used to recite Takbeer because of their Takbeer.”  (al-Bukhaari) 

What to say?

 "الله أكبر الله أكبر الله أكبر، لا إله إلا الله، والله أكبر الله أكبر، ولله الحمد" 

“Allaah is Most Great, Allaah is Most Great, there is no god except Allaah, Allaah is Most Great, Allaah is Most Great, and all praise be to Allaah”

اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ كَبِيرًا وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ كَثِيرًا وَسُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ بُكْرَةً وَأَصِيلًا اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلَا نَعْبُدُ إلَّا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ له الدَّيْنَ وَلَوْ كَرِهَ الْكَافِرُونَ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ صَدَقَ وَعْدَهُ وَنَصَرَ عَبْدَهُ وَهَزَمَ الْأَحْزَابَ وَحْدَهُ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَاَللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ 

“Allaah is most Great, much praise be to Allaah and glory be to Allaah at the beginning and end of the day. Allaah is most Great and we worship none but Allaah, and we make our worship purely for Him (alone) however much the disbelievers may hate that. 

There is no god but Allaah alone; He fulfilled His promise and granted victory to His slave and defeated the Confederates alone. 

There is no God but Allaah and Allaah is most Great.”

Allaahu Akbar!

When to start the Takbeeraat?

The takbeeraat of Eid al-Adhaa begin at sunset when the moon of Dhul Hijjah is sighted and last until the sun sets on the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. 

That means we should *START* saying the Takbeeraat from TONIGHT at sunset.  

 Allaah says:

“That they may witness things that are of benefit to them (i.e. reward of Hajj in the Hereafter, and also some worldly gain from trade), and mention the Name of Allaah on appointed days”

[al-Hajj 22:28]

These are the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. 

And Allaah says:

“And remember Allaah during the appointed Days [These are the three days of staying at Mina during the Hajj; 11th, 12th and 13th days of the month of Dhul-Hijjah]” [al-Baqarah 2:203]

These are the days of Tashreeq (11th, 12th and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah).

 And the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said: 

“The days of Tashreeq are the days of eating, drinking and REMEMBERING Allaah.” 

(Muslim) 

Shaikh Ibn Baaz said:

“With regard to Takbeer on (Eid al-) Adhaa, it is prescribed from the beginning of the month until the end of the thirteenth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah.”

(Kitaab Majmoo’ Fataawa Wa Maqaalaat Mutanawwi’ah Li Samaahat Vol. 13, P. 17)

*Two types of Takbeeraat*

The Takbeeraat are of TWO KINDS 

*1.”General” or “UNrestricted” Takbeeraat*

These are said ANY time, ALL the time, during the day and night. 

*2.Specified or “Restricted” Takbeeraat*

These Takbeeraat are said specifically AFTER EVERY FARDH  Salaah, immediately after the salaam. 

These Takbeeraat are to be said from Fajr of the 9th of Dhul Hijjah until Maghrib of the 13th of this month. 

Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen explains:

“The takbeer is divided into two categories: 

*1. Takbeer at any time. *

This is takbeer that is not limited to a specific time, and it is Sunnah to say it all the time, morning and evening, before prayer and after prayer, at all times. 

It is Sunnah to recite takbeer at “any time” during the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah and all the days of Tashreeq, starting from the beginning of the month of Dhu’l-Hijjah (i.e., from sunset on the last day of Dhu’l-Qa’dah) until the end of the days of al-Tashreeq, which is when the sun sets on the thirteenth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah).

*2. Takbeer at certain times.*

This is takbeer that is limited to the time *immediately after prayer*.

 With regard to at “certain” times, it starts from Fajr on the day of ‘Arafah and lasts until the sun sets on the last day of the days of Tashreeq, in addition to the takbeer that may be recited at any time. 

So when a person says the tasleem at the end of the obligatory prayer, he should pray for forgiveness (by saying Astaghfir-Allaah) three times, and say, “Allaahumma anta al-salaam wa minka al-salaam, tabaarakta yaa dhaa’l-jalaali wa’l-ikraam 

(“O Allaah, You are al-Salaam [the One Who is free from all defects and deficiencies), and from You is all peace, blessed are You, O possessor of majesty and honor)”, 

*then start the takbeer*.

This is for those who are *NOT* on Hajj. 

The pilgrims should start the takbeer recited after prayer from Dhuhr on the Day of Sacrifice (the 10th of Dhu’l-Hijjah).”

[al-Sharh al-Mumti’ 5/220-224]

Should I say the Takbeeraat LOUD or SOFT?

Brothers should raise their voices reciting this dhikr, wherever they may be, but sisters should say it softly, without raising their voices. 

But if the sisters are at home, among Mahrams, then can say the Takbeeraat our loud as well. 

So Come on!

Let us take advantage of these beautiful days of opportunity. 

GLORIFY your Rabb, and MAGNIFY His Praise and EXALT His Name as MUCH as you can. 

Sitting, walking, eating, driving, working, cleaning, cooking....

Keep saying it. 

Start tonight and don’t stop until Maghrib of the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. 

I ask Allaah to accept our Ibaadaat and good deeds and multiply them in these glorious days of Dhul Hijjah.

 Ameen.